Yoruba Council honours ex-NAWOJ president with traditional title
By Bukola Adetoye
The Yoruba Council Worldwide (YCW) has honoured Mrs Ifeyinwa Omowole, former President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, with the title of “Yeye Ataiyese Omoluabi Odua Agbaye”.
The title means ”The mother, who beautifies the world, who is also an honourable person of Oduduwa clan worldwide”.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the prestigious title was conferred on Omowole during the 26th anniversary and 7th annual World Omoluabi Festival held on Thursday in Abeokuta.
Omowole is currently Head of Editorial Operations of NAN, Lagos office.
According to the Global President of YCW, Aare Sooko Hassan, the council is dedicated to advancing the Yoruba Agenda.
Hassan said the title was reserved for individuals who were well-mannered and had demonstrated exceptional service in Yoruba land.
“The Yoruba Agenda refers to a collective framework aimed at promoting the interests and development of the Yoruba people, particularly in the South-West geopolitical zone of Nigeria.
“It focuses on unity, economic empowerment, education, infrastructure development, good governance, and self-determination,” Hassan said.
He noted, however, that the agenda was experiencing numerous challenges, such as divisions among Yoruba sub-ethnic groups with differing opinions and interests.
“Lack of unity and cohesion, especially among Yoruba political elites, limited financial and human resources, national policies that often impact Yoruba regional development and autonomy.”
In her acceptance speech, Omowole expressed appreciation to the organisers for the honour, describing it as motivation to continue serving the land diligently.
“Though I am not a Yoruba woman, I have been married to a Yoruba man for over 30 years and I am also a chief in Ife.
“Every time I am recognised in Yoruba land, it strengthens my belief in the unity of Nigeria,” she said.
The Yeye added that “I speak Yoruba fluently, including its proverbs, and sees such honours as a testament to national unity.
“It is a sign of unity. All Nigerians, irrespective of ethnicity, must build on this to show that we can truly be one.”
Omowole also praised NAN for giving her the platform to showcase her skills over the years.
“I’m one of the oldest in the NAN newsroom. I’ve spent nearly 33 years here, consistently producing award-winning stories.
“This isn’t the first time I’m being recognised, and I’m grateful.”(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa
